WIDNES' most famous fish and chip shop has closed its doors after 30 years.

The owners of renowned Lacey Street Chippy in Widnes served their last portion of fish and chips on Saturday, December 23.

The news will come as a shock for loyal customers to the Newtown ward fish and chip bar after the couple who opened their chip shop around 1976, Alan and Sue Leech, have decided to call it a day and transform the shop into their home.

Neighbours say the couple deserve their retirement after decades serving the people of Widnes.

One resident said: 'The chippy has been going for 30 years that I know about. It was the best fish and chip shop in Widnes and everyone around here is really sad that its closing.

'You were always met with a smile and could have a friendly chat with them. It's like another piece of Widnes history has gone.'

People use to flock to Lacey Street from far and wide to sample some of the fish and chips and it fast gained a reputation as serving 'the nicest chips in town'.

Another resident said Lacey Street 'won't be the same again'.

She added: 'My family have been eating out of there for years and years and I don't know what we will do with out it.'

It is believed the only lasting part of the chip shop to change hands is the potato peeler which will be installed in the kitchens of a new restaurant to be opened in the same area this month.